Key events in the fall and rise of General Motors

A timeline of key events in the fall and revival of General Motors Co.

2008

Nov. 18 — The CEOs of GM, Ford and Chrysler ask for aid from Congress, citing the weak economy, plummeting sales and the collapse of the U.S. banking system.

Dec. 19 — President Bush approves $17.4 billion in loans for GM and Chrysler, citing an imminent collapse of the industry. President Obama eventually approves another $44.6 billion in aid for the companies.

2009

March 30 — GM CEO Rick Wagoner is forced to resign by the government.

April 30 — Chrysler files for bankruptcy protection.

June 1 — GM files for bankruptcy protection. Orion Assembly Plant is on a list of 12 plants it plans to close or idle.

June 11 — Chrysler leaves bankruptcy in a new partnership with Italian automaker Fiat SpA.

June 26 — GM says Orion will stay open and build a new small car that was originally scheduled to be built in China.

July 10 — GM emerges from bankruptcy protection. Becomes a private company with U.S. government as largest shareholder. Former AT&T head Ed Whitacre becomes board chairman.